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Skip the Lines and Explore the mystical Basilica Cistern with a Guided Tour. Discover the secrets of the Medusa heads, uncover hidden stories, and enjoy a bonus Blue Mosque Audio Guide.

Highlights

• Skip long lines with fast-track entry to the Basilica Cistern
• Explore a stunning underground palace of marble columns and water
• Discover the mysterious Medusa heads and their legendary stories
• Stay inside after the guided tour and explore at your own pace
• Enhance your Istanbul visit with a bonus Blue Mosque Audio Guide

Description

Descend below the heart of Istanbul and discover the Basilica Cistern, a hidden underground world of marble columns, rippling waters, and ancient legends. Built in the 6th century during the Byzantine Empire, this vast subterranean reservoir once supplied water to palaces and public baths. Today, it stuns visitors with its haunting atmosphere: hundreds of marble columns reflecting in the still waters under soft, mysterious light. With fast-track entry, skip the long queues and step straight inside. On your guided tour, hear the fascinating stories of Byzantine engineering brilliance and learn how the cistern remained vital throughout Ottoman times. One of the highlights lies at the far end, the mysterious Medusa heads, steeped in myth and legend. Your guide will reveal the secrets behind these iconic sculptures and the symbolism hidden in their unique placement. This is not just a monument, it’s a journey through centuries of history and imagination. After the guided tour ends, you’re free to stay inside as long as you wish, immersing yourself in the otherworldly beauty of this underground palace. As an added bonus, receive Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque audio guides, giving you the freedom to explore one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks at your own pace.

Includes

Fast-track Entry Ticket to the Basilica Cistern 30 min. Guided Tour with a Professional Local Guide at Basilica Cistern Unlimited time inside after the tour Audio Guide for the Blue Mosque on your smartphone Audio Guide is available in English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Romanian, Russian, Chinese

Important Information

• How It Works Basilica Cistern Guided Tour Join the guided tour with English speaking guide at your booked time. Your licensed guide will take you inside the Basilica Cistern, share its fascinating history, and point out hidden details you might otherwise miss. At the end of the Guided Tour, continue exploring at your own pace with an Audio Guide on your smartphone. Blue Mosque Audio Guide Receive by email the audio guide instruction. The audio guide works on your smartphone and is available in English, German, French, Spanish, Italien, Romanian, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese. Visit the Blue Mosque at any time during regular opening hours (outside prayer times). Simply use your audio guide on your smartphone, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the freedom to stay as long as you wish.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund